Dhawan, Kohli put India in command

Ashwin fell in the bowler’s next over when a good length ball sneaked through the bat-pad gap and crashed into the offstump.

That brought Sangakkara to the crease, but the home crowd were denied a trademark innings from the 37-year-old as he became Ashwin’s first victim of the match to leave Sri Lanka in deep trouble on 27-3. Ashwin was the inspiration behind India’s impressive performance, and his figures of 6/46 was the best by an Indian in Sri Lanka, surpassing Harbhajan Singh’s 6/102 during the 2008 series.

Dhawan, with his fourth Test ton, and Kohli, with his fourth in as many matches since becoming captain, ensured there was no let up as they steered their side to 375, and a lead of 192. However, a brilliant bowling display by the Indians led to Sri Lanka getting bowled out for just 183 runs.

Kohli, in his complete sequence as India’s check chief, appeared collection for his hundred in assessments and has struck eight fours.

In the 73rd over by Tharindu Kaushal, Kohli continued his rampage and hit a four of the second ball to finish his century from a total of 188 balls at a strike rate of 55 in style.

The two overnight batsmen kept the Sri Lankan bowlers wicketless throughout the first session of day two.

Earlier on Day One, Sri Lanka skipper Angelo Mathews won the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch that looked conducive for batting.

It was Tharindu Kaushal, the offspinner, who opened the doors for Sri Lanka by striking twice in the space of two overs to see the back of Kohli and Rahane.

Dhawan made amends for dropping Silva in Aaron’s previous over with a diving catch though replays suggested the ball came off the batsman’s arm guard when he attempted a hook shot.

Earlier, India lost Lokesh Rahul and Rohit Sharma yesterday.

But the morning session belonged to India’s third-wicket pairing, who added 99 runs without being parted.